Tai Chi Shown as Effective as therapy for Chronic Insomnia in Adults
Hong Kong – A new randomized controlled trial published November 26, 2025, in the BMJ demonstrates that Tai Chi is a non-inferior treatment option to cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for chronic insomnia in middle-aged and older adults. The findings offer a promising, accessible option for the millions struggling with persistent sleep difficulties, potentially expanding treatment options beyond traditional talk therapy.
Chronic insomnia affects a critically important portion of the population, especially as individuals age, impacting both physical and mental health. Current guidelines recommend CBT as a first-line treatment,but access can be limited due to cost,availability of trained therapists,and patient preference. This study, led by Parco M. Siu at the University of Hong Kong, suggests Tai chi provides a comparable benefit, offering a potentially more widely available and acceptable intervention.
Researchers compared the effectiveness of Tai Chi to CBT in 266 adults aged 60 and older experiencing chronic insomnia. Participants where randomly assigned to either a 12-week Tai Chi program or a 12-week CBT program. Results showed no significant difference in insomnia severity between the two groups, indicating Tai Chi is not inferior to CBT in improving sleep quality.
The study involved researchers from multiple institutions including the University of California, San Francisco and The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Further details of the study, titled “Tai chi or cognitive behavioural therapy for treating insomnia in middle aged and older adults: randomised non-inferiority trial,” can be found at bmj.com. A related news release from BMJ group is available at eurekalert.org.
Significant Note: This article provides general information and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. It is indeed not a substitute for professional medical advice.
